Army “Might” Lift Bans on Major Mental Disorders

MabryPsyD

Dr. G.
5-Year Member
Joined
Jul 1, 2013
Messages
403
Disclaimer: Due to my position, I CANNOT publicly support or admonish Army policy. I am merely reporting to give parents and hopefuls current information. My interpretation is this policy MIGHT affect enlisted only. I have NOT seen anything through official channels to confirm this news story, BUT I consider the source credible.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news...ilation-other-mental-health-issues/853131001/

I have no issue answering questions with factual information, but I cannot speculate or criticize.
 
I cant imagine someone with bipolar being allowed to serve. They are functional people when on medication, but who is going to make sure they keep taking it

One of the treatments for BPD is lithium, which requires regular checks to ensure one isn't suffering from heavy metal poisoning. The patient is also at an increased risk for dehydration. Currently, anyone who is on lithium therapy is nondeployable per MOD-12.
 
Sounds like folks have misinterpreted the story, waivers MAY be granted for certain conditions but most certainly not for major illness like severe depression, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
 
The thought that Recruiting Command gets to grant these waivers seems to be a bit of a conflict of interest. Let's see, I'm not meeting our recruiting mission numbers, but.............
 
Seems like common sense to me. Saying any person who's ever had addiction or depression in their past could not possibly function well enough to serve their country is just part of the social stigma surrounding mental health. Waivers exist for a reason.
 
Seems like common sense to me. Saying any person who's ever had addiction or depression in their past could not possibly function well enough to serve their country is just part of the social stigma surrounding mental health. Waivers exist for a reason.

How heavy can we make our company commander and first sergeant rucksacks? Company grade leadership bears the burden anytime the DoD begins to issue increased "waivers." It's a heavy burden. Is it centered on readiness collective training proficiency to fight and win?
 
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